THINKING of putting on your own big DIY firework display? NSW Police warn be prepared to cop a big fine.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
A total fire ban has been declared across most of the region with hot, windy weather predicted to see out the year.
There's more than 110 fires burning across NSW and firefighters, who already stretched to the limit, are aiming to limit any new fires being ignited from fireworks.
"People risk being fined more than $2000 if they are caught illegally using fireworks during the total fire ban period this New Year's Eve," NSW Police said early on Tuesday morning.
Police are appealing for anyone who witnesses another person using fireworks, or conducting illegal activities during the total fire ban period, to contact their local police or the Police Assistance Line.
Anyone who wishes to use fireworks in the total fire ban regions (listed below) is required to apply to the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) for an exemption.
State Emergency Operations Controller, Deputy Commissioner Gary Worboys, said only those licensed - and who have been granted an exemption from the total fire ban rules - may use fireworks in NSW.
"I want to send a very clear message to those members of the general public who are thinking of setting off fireworks today: if you have not been granted an exemption you can expect to be dealt with under the full force of the law," he said.
"That means you will be issued with an on-the-spot fine of $2200, or if the matter goes to court you could receive a court-imposed penalty of up to $5500 and/or up to 12 months jail.
"Using fireworks should be left to the professionals as they are dangerous and can cause significant injury or even death.
NSW Police said marine flares should not be used unlawfully as they are emergency warning signals, designed for a specific purpose.
"Anyone caught using a distress signal/marine flare without a legitimate purpose can receive an on-the-spot fine of $1000," police said.
Additionally, the penalty for disposing of cigarette butts illegally is doubled during a total fire ban, so those caught will be liable for a fine $1320.
Spot a DIY fireworks display?
Police are appealing for anyone who witnesses another person using fireworks, or conducting illegal activities during the total fire ban period, to contact their local police or the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.
Call triple-0 if it's an emergency.
For additional information about the rules relating to total fire bans see visit the NSW RFS online.
Regions with a total fire ban in place on December 31
- Central Ranges
- Southern Slopes
- Greater Hunter
- Greater Sydney Region
- Illawarra/Shoalhaven
- Far South Coast
- Monaro Alpine
- Southern Ranges
- Northern Slopes
- North Western
- Eastern Riverina
Nadine Morton
Nadine Morton covers emergency services and breaking news for the Illawarra Mercury. She takes pride in regional journalism which she believes is crucial to informing our towns and cities. Have a story? Email her at nadine.morton@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Nadine Morton covers emergency services and breaking news for the Illawarra Mercury. She takes pride in regional journalism which she believes is crucial to informing our towns and cities. Have a story? Email her at nadine.morton@austcommunitymedia.com.au
